Dave Pagnotta of The Fourth Period shared insights on Sirius XM NHL Network Power Play regarding potential contract extensions for promising young players like Macklin Celebrini and Connor Bedard, considering the escalating NHL salary cap.
Jason Strudwick highlighted the significant projected increase in the salary cap, noting that it will reach approximately $104 million next season, jump to $113.5 million within a year, and potentially hit $120 million to $124 million in two years. This financial growth creates substantial room for new deals for emerging talent.
Pagnotta anticipates that Connor Bedard, given his age and performance, could sign a mid-tier contract. This type of deal might extend through the final year of his restricted free agency, potentially earning him around $12 million annually, or even more, reflecting his capabilities.
Macklin Celebrini, with two years remaining on his entry-level deal, is also expected to be a focus of contract talks this summer. His situation is seen as even more significant, with teams prioritizing long-term commitments to lock in such high-caliber players. From a player’s perspective, these negotiations will balance financial security with strategic timing concerning their career trajectory and future earning potential.
The Anaheim Ducks are also facing significant contract decisions with several young players. Cutter Gauthier, who recently scored 40 goals, is in need of a new deal. The team also has other promising talents, including Leo Carlsson and a young defenseman, who will require new contracts. Pagnotta suggests the Ducks will be allocating substantial funds to these players and anticipates they may follow a similar pattern to Bedard’s potential deal, with mid-term extensions of four to five years at significant figures. He foresees the salary cap continuing to rise, potentially reaching $130 million in five years, which will further drive up player salaries.
Macklin Celebrini himself has expressed openness to signing an extension this summer. While each player’s situation is unique, it is expected that negotiations for Bedard and Celebrini, as well as for players like Cutter Gauthier and Leo Carlsson on the Ducks, will result in considerable salary increases due to their skill and the expanding salary cap.
